Indiana’s Sunday Alcohol Law has made a big change over the past couple of years. Even after the passing of the 21st Amendment, effectively overturning Prohibition, Indiana residents were prohibited from purchasing alcohol on Sundays, aside from ordering a drink in a restaurant or filling a beer growler. To the delight of many, a bill allowing carryout package liquor sales in Indiana recently passed both the House and the Senate (titled Senate Bill 1 and House Bill 1051 respectively). On February 28, 2018, Governor Eric Holcomb signed the bill into law.
WHAT DOES THE NEW INDIANA’S SUNDAY ALCOHOL LAW SAY?
What Can You Buy and When? A Quick Guide to Sunday Alcohol Purchases
While the new law allows for Sunday alcohol purchases, it’s important to know the specific guidelines:
- Liquor stores, grocery stores, and convenience stores: Alcohol can be purchased from noon to 8 p.m.
- Bars and restaurants: Alcohol can be served from 7 a.m. to 3 a.m., as it has been on previous days.
Keep in mind that alcohol purchase times are significantly more limited on Sundays compared to Monday through Saturday when sales are allowed from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m.
Restaurants or bars can serve drinks (beer, wine and cocktails) from 7 a.m. to 3 a.m., but if you are planning to purchase at a liquor, grocery or convenience store on a Sunday, you can only purchase it between noon and 8 p.m.11 hours ago
What About Beer in Indiana? Important Updates on Beer Regulations
The law around beer sales on Sundays has undergone some changes too. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Beer Growlers: These can be filled on Sundays as long as the beer is from a brewery brewing on the premises.
- Non-Cold Beer: Non-cold beer can now be sold on Sundays at grocery and convenience stores.
- Cold Beer: The law restricting cold beer sales remains unchanged. You can still only purchase cold beer at liquor stores on Sundays.
Cold Beer Sales Still Restricted
While Indiana has made progress in terms of alcohol sales, one area that remains regulated is the sale of cold beer. The state still does not allow cold beer to be sold in grocery or convenience stores. This makes Indiana unique in its approach to alcohol sales, it's the only state that differentiates beer based on temperature. Cold beer sales are allowed at liquor stores, as long as it’s during the designated Sunday hours.
Growler Sales: What’s Allowed on Sundays
For craft beer lovers, growler sales have always been a unique offering. With the new law, Indiana allows beer growlers to be filled on Sundays. This is good news for beer enthusiasts who enjoy picking up fresh brews from local breweries. Just remember, the brewery must brew the beer on-site for it to be eligible for Sunday sales.
Remember, drinking and driving is still a crime in Indiana, even on a Sunday. The legal limit for your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) in Indiana is .08. If you are pulled over, breathalyzed, and exceed .08, you will be charged with an OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) under Indiana law.
Contact Hayes Law Office for Questions on Alcohol Law Violations
If you find yourself facing charges related to the violation of Indiana’s alcohol laws, whether for underage drinking or purchasing alcohol outside of legal hours, Hayes Law Office is here to help. Our experienced team can guide you through the legal process and work towards the best possible outcome for your case.
Can I buy alcohol at any store on Sundays in Indiana?
No. You can only purchase alcohol at specific locations like liquor stores, grocery stores, pharmacies, and convenience stores, and only between 12 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Can I buy cold beer in grocery stores on Sundays in Indiana?
No. Cold beer can only be sold at liquor stores on Sundays.
What is the legal limit for blood alcohol content in Indiana?
The legal limit for BAC is 0.08% in Indiana. Exceeding this limit can lead to an OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) charge.
Is it still illegal to buy alcohol before noon on Sundays in Indiana?
Yes. Alcohol sales on Sundays are restricted to the hours of 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. only.
